What is the purpose of air curtains?

What is the purpose of air curtains? An air curtain is designed to produce a controlled flow of air across an opening, usually over a doorway, to form an invisible barrier between two areas. This helps to eliminate air movement from one space to another when a door is open.

Air curtains are often installed above entrance doors, loading bays, warehouse doors, cold room entrances and shop fronts in commercial and industrial buildings. They primarily serve to keep the heated or cooled air inside the building, preventing heat loss in the winter and helping to create cooler indoor conditions in the summer. This can increase comfort for staff, customers and visitors, especially in busy entrances where people frequently open the doors.

Air curtains can also help to reduce draughts. If you don’t have one, cold outside air can rush in through an open doorway, creating uncomfortable conditions and making the heating system work harder. The air curtain separates the inside from the outside by blowing a high-velocity stream of air down across the doorway.

Another important goal is energy efficiency. Air curtains can reduce the running costs and carbon emissions of heating or cooling systems by limiting uncontrolled air exchange. This is particularly beneficial in buildings with lots of foot traffic or doors that remain open for long periods of time.

Depending on the application and quality of installation, air curtains may also help to limit the entry of dust, fumes, insects and airborne contaminants. They help keep doors open for easier access in retail and hospitality, while still protecting the indoor environment.

Air curtains can also have electric, hot water or heat pump heating elements built into them, so they can also provide extra warmth at entrances. But their main purpose is not just to be a heater; it is also to create an air barrier, improving comfort, reducing draughts and helping to improve energy performance.